The wife of former Kaduna State governor Nasiru El-Rufai, Aisha El-Rufai, has voiced strong support for African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate Isa Ashiru, even after a controversial audio recording surfaced.
Aisha El‑Rufai’s Firm Stance
In a Facebook post, she declared, “No retreat, no surrender. Kicking and struggling do not prevent death. Audio, letters, videos, whatever they are, even if Isa Ashiru will deal with not only Malam El‑Rufai but the whole family. I said it is only one term; there will be no reverse, God willing.”
Details of the Leaked Audio
The recording allegedly features a voice criticising El‑Rufai, claiming that the move to the ADC was merely a tactic to secure the party’s governorship ticket. It further alleged that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is split between factions led by Nyesom Wike and Tanimu Turaki, with both sides engaged in legal battles.
ADC Ally Calls the Recording Fake
A prominent ADC figure in Kaduna North and an ally of Ashiru told Daily Trust that the audio is not authentic. “We don’t believe it was his voice. In this era of artificial intelligence, anything is possible. They only doctored the audio to suit their attempt to tarnish Ashiru’s image before the public,” the source said, accusing political opponents of orchestrating a smear campaign ahead of future contests.
Loyalists Rally Behind El‑Rufai
Another source noted that the audio’s content was surprising and revealed that loyalists of the former governor met on Sunday to discuss the leak’s implications. The gathering aimed to reassure party members of their continued backing for El‑Rufai.
“As loyalists of El‑Rufai within the party, we met today to discuss the issue and to make it clear that our loyalty remains with him. We will do everything within our powers to protect his image in Kaduna State,” the source affirmed. The party chieftain declined further comment, stating that another meeting would be convened soon to finalise the stance of El‑Rufai’s supporters within the ADC.
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